Executive Director

Virginia Capital Trail Foundation
Richmond, Virginia

About the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation

The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation (VCTF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protect, promote, and enhance the Virginia Capital Trail and engage communities around it, a 52-mile, paved, multi-use trail connecting Williamsburg and Richmond along the historic Route 5 corridor. The Foundation works to ensure that the Trail remains a premier recreational, transportation, and tourism asset for all who live in and visit the region.

Through partnerships with localities, state agencies, businesses, and community organizations, VCTF enhances the Trail experience by providing amenities, programs, and events; advocates for trail connections statewide; and fosters stewardship through outreach, education, and volunteer engagement.

Position Overview

The Executive Director (ED) of the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation, providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and visionary direction to advance the Foundation’s mission. The ED manages staff, programs, and finances; cultivates strong relationships with partners and funders; and leads efforts to sustain and expand the Foundation’s impact.

The successful candidate will be a dynamic, relationship-driven leader who thrives at the intersection of community engagement, nonprofit management, transportation, and outdoor recreation.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead the implementation of the Foundation’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with its mission and values
• Inspire, manage, and support a small, talented staff team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation
• Work closely with the Board of Directors to establish goals, policies, and priorities, and to ensure sound governance and transparency
• Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the Foundation, representing the organization in public forums, media, and community events

Fundraising & Partnerships

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy, including individual giving, corporate partnerships, grants, and special events
• Cultivate and steward relationships with donors, sponsors, public agencies, and partner organizations
• Identify new funding opportunities and partnerships to ensure long-term financial sustainability, including growth of the Foundation’s quasi-endowment

Operations & Financial Management

• Oversee annual budgeting, financial management, and reporting to ensure fiscal responsibility and integrity
• Maintain balanced budgets and build upon a strong foundation of operational excellence
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit regulations, contracts, and reporting requirements
• Manage the day-to-day operations of the organization, including staff supervision, program delivery, and communications

Program Development & Community Engagement

• Lead and expand community engagement programs, events, and volunteer initiatives that enhance the Trail experience and increase participation
• Collaborate with partners and local governments to advocate for trail connections, safety improvements, and statewide trail funding
• Promote the Trail as a key component of regional health, economic development, and tourism

Qualifications

• Preference of 7–10 years of progressive nonprofit leadership experience; executive or senior management experience strongly preferred
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and partnership development
• Proven ability to manage budgets, staff, and strategic plans effectively
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to inspire diverse audiences
• Collaborative and entrepreneurial mindset, with a passion for outdoor recreation, community building, or conservation
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or equivalent experience preferred
• Experience with or knowledge of trail planning, design, and construction processes, strongly preferred

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $100,000 to $125,000
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off
• Hybrid work schedule